Crossword Genius

Count building site first (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

earliest

'first' is the definition.
(similar in meaning)

'count building site' is the wordplay.
'count' becomes 'earl' (I've seen this in another clue).
'building' is an anagram indicator.
'site' is an anagram of 'iest'.
'earl'+'iest'='EARLIEST'

(Other definitions for earliest that I've seen before include "Original or most previous" , "Nearest the start of a time period" , "With the least delay" , "First occurring" , "Nearest the beginning in time" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.